The Office of Equity and Inclusion in collaboration with the Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy and International Affairs’ Public Policy and Public Service Program; Hofstra Cultural Center; Maurice A. Deane School of Law; Division of Student Enrollment, Engagement, and Success; and Center for “Race,” Culture and Social Justice presents a one-day symposium
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: THE ROAD AHEAD
The recent SCOTUS decision on affirmative action in college admission will have a lasting impact on all raceconscious policies, funding, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and the workforce. The symposium brings together students, scholars, lawyers, and industry professionals to examine the history of affirmative action and the implications of the SCOTUS decision for college admissions and beyond. Faculty are highly encouraged to bring their classes to the sessions below. RSVP at events.hofstra.edu or email equity@hofstra.edu
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2023
Leo A. Guthart Cultural Center Theater, Axinn Library, First Floor, South Campus
11:10 a.m.: Opening Remarks
Cornell Craig, CDIO, Hofstra University
Dr. Susan Poser, President, Hofstra University
11:30 a.m.-12:50 p.m.: “The Future of Professional Fields in the Wake of the SCOTUS Decision”
Dr. Tara-Marie Desruisseaux, Dr. Jonathan Lightfoot, Dr. Lutisha Vickerie, Dr. Rona F. Woldenberg, and Tanya Martinez-Gallinucci
What does the SCOTUS decision mean for initiatives put in place to increase the representation of people of color in the medical, business, education, and law fields? Panelists discuss the possible implications for professional schools and the workforce, and how we can continue to make inroads.
12:55-1:30 p.m.: Lunch (reservation required)
1:40-2:30 p.m.: Speaking Frankly | CBS Reports
Dr. Andrea S. Libresco and Kashmiraa Pandit
“In the 1960s, affirmative action policies were created to remedy a lack of representation of women and people of color in the workforce and on college campuses. Supporters say it’s an important tool for dismantling structural racism, while critics argue it allows preferential treatment based on race and gender.” This episode examines the topic from various perspectives. The audience will participate in a faculty-led discussion at the conclusion of the film.
2:40-4:05 p.m.: “Unpacking the SCOTUS Decision: Affirmative Action’s Ripple Effect on Pipeline Programs and Funding”
Dr. Colleen Campbell, Roosevelt Smith, Baraka Corley, Yesika Fernandez, Olamide Oluwafemi, Scott Brinton and Marjorie Martinez
Did the SCOTUS decision set the precedent for dismantling other race-conscious policies? How can we maintain the progress achieved in the last few decades? Administrators and students discuss the impact on pipeline initiatives and the possible implications the SCOTUS decision will have on scholarships and funding.
4:15 p.m.: Remarks
Dr. Charles Riordan, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Hofstra University
4:25-5:45 p.m.: “Affirmative Action, Then and Now: A Legal, Political, and Personal Analysis”
Dr. Kristal Brent Zook, Dr. Rebecca Natow, Dr. Alex Sinha, and Dr. Meena Bose
Panelists discuss the role of the federal government in higher education, their personal experiences with affirmative action, and the road ahead for race-conscious policies in admissions, and affirmative action.